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Contemporary Concise Review 2022: Sleep
Denise M O'Driscoll1,2, Alan C Young1,2
1Department of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, Eastern Health, Box Hill, Victoria, Australia.
Respirology (Carlton, Vic.)
|March 29, 2023
Summary
The COVID-19 pandemic worsened insomnia and sleep quality, especially for healthcare workers. Treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) and CPAP for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) show benefits, but more research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Sleep Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiovascular Health
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic has led to increased rates of insomnia and poor sleep quality.
- Healthcare workers are particularly vulnerable to sleep disturbances.
- Long COVID and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) significantly impact sleep and overall health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the impact of COVID-19 on sleep patterns and quality.
- To discuss the role of treatments like CPAP and CBT-I in managing sleep disorders.
- To highlight emerging research on OSA, insomnia, and their cardiovascular implications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on COVID-19, insomnia, and obstructive sleep apnea.
- Analysis of clinical trial data on CPAP treatment for OSA.
- Examination of evidence for novel insomnia treatments.
Main Results:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) improves sleep in affected populations.
- CPAP treatment for OSA demonstrates cardiovascular benefits and potential cognitive improvements.
- Racial disparities in OSA prevalence and mortality are increasingly recognized.
- Comorbid insomnia and OSA (COMISA) poses significant cardiovascular risks.
Conclusions:
- Effective management strategies exist for COVID-19-related sleep issues and OSA.
- Further research is crucial to understand long-term cognitive outcomes of OSA and address health disparities.
- Early intervention for OSA during pregnancy is vital for cardiovascular risk management.
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